Fines Could Increase For Those Who Ignore Water Regulations

LOS ANGELES (CNS) - A proposed ordinance introduced on Tuesday would increase fines from $100 to $500 per day for residents of unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County who ignore regulations against hosing down driveways, watering lawns midday or leaving a hose running while washing their cars.

Written warnings for violations would be issued on the first offense, but fines would apply for every day of violation after that warning.

The existing water conservation ordinance already prohibits watering lawns or landscaping between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. or allowing water run-off into streets or alleys. It also bans restaurant workers from serving drinking water to customers until specifically requested and using anything but recycled water in decorative fountains.

The Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to place the measure on a future agenda for adoption.